Mar.25, 2026

Vol. 2

Unsung Heroes Inspiring Students Around the World

Every year, students around the world uncover powerful stories of Unsung Heroes, individuals whose courage, compassion, and perseverance changed the course of history, with their stories never being known.

Through documentaries, websites, and performances, students explore history in meaningful ways, while developing critical thinking, research, and storytelling skills. As they investigate the lives of these remarkable individuals, students begin to see how ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference.

Since its founding, the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes has worked with more than three million students from over 40,000 schools worldwide. Through project-based learning, students research individuals whose courage and compassion transformed lives and communities, ensuring their stories are remembered and shared.

These discoveries often leave a lasting impression. By uncovering hidden figures of history, students gain a deeper understanding of the power of courage, compassion, and perseverance, and the role each person can play in shaping a better world.

LMC Fellows in Action

In classrooms around the world, educators are finding creative ways to help students connect with the stories of Unsung Heroes. One example comes from the classroom of Graeme Stacey, a 2025 National LMC Fellow who teaches Genocide, Holocaust, and History classes in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada.

Graeme challenges his students to think critically, ask deeper questions, and engage with history in meaningful ways. In one recent project, students transformed classroom ceiling tiles into powerful works of art that honor Unsung Heroes and the courage they represent.

The finished tiles now hang above the classroom, creating a daily reminder of the individuals whose stories the students researched. Through projects like this, students not only learn history, but they also reflect on the impact that courage, compassion, and perseverance can have on the world.

Discovery Award Submissions Are Approaching

Over the years, the Lowell Milken Center Discovery Award competition has grown, as more teachers and students embrace project-based learning and the opportunity to bring overlooked stories to light. The quality, creativity, and depth of research in these projects continue to impress our judges and inspire everyone involved.

We are looking forward to receiving this year’s submissions and seeing the remarkable stories students have discovered.

If you are a teacher or student currently working on a project and have questions about the submission process, we are always happy to help. Please feel free to reach out.

Discovery Award project deadline: July 1
Learn more and access submission information:
https://www.lowellmilkencenter.org/competitions/discovery-award

[email protected]
620-223-1312

Do you know an educator or student who would love this opportunity?

Please help us spread the word!

Share the Discovery Award with teachers, students, and schools in your circle and invite them to discover a hero, create a project, and make an impact.